Dear hyperhaus,

Sounds like you're already being helpful. You're right — it's natural and normal. Women have two sets of lips (labia). The outer lips are two folds of skin and fatty tissue. After puberty, they are usually covered with pubic hair. They can be large or small, short or long, and even two different sizes.

The inner lips are the folds of skin that go from the clitoral hood to below the vagina. These may also be two different sizes. Also, some girls have inner lips that are larger than their outer lips. They may even stick out from between the outer lips. Every woman's vulva is made up of the same parts, but each one looks different — and that's normal.

Many people have insecurities about their bodies. It's good that you're concerned about your girlfriend's feelings. Reassuring her that her body looks fine is a good way to show that you accept and respect her. It may be a while before she can overcome her self-consciousness, but your reassurance will help.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.